ALEPH MAGAZINE - ISSUE 02 - SPRING 2021

VANCOUVER __ ISSUE 02 __ SPRING 2021

BEING A HERO, AT HOME AND

IN BUSINESS PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

OVER $100 MILLIONS SALES IN 2021 SO FAR

604 500 1010 | amir@hamzehali.com | 2397 Marine Dr. West Vancouver ALEPH MAGAZINE

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PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

604 500 1010

10 ‫ او در مــدت کمتــر از‬.‫امیــر حمــزه ‌علــی مشــاور بر تــر ا مــا ک و متخصــص بــازار ا مــا ک لو کــس در متــرو ونکــوور اســت‬ ‫ وی جوایــز متعــددی در حــوزه‬.‫ســال توانســت بــه جمــع بهتر یــن و موفق‌تر یــن مشــاوران ا مــا ک ا یــن شــهر بپیونــدد‬ ‫ در نــورث ونکــوور و‬Royal Lepage ‫ی کار ی‌اش دریا فــت کــرده ا ســت کــه از آن جملــه می‌تــوان بــه نفــر اول شــرکت‬ ‫ عضــو‬،Chairman’s Club ‫ عضــو‬،)‫ در صــد در کل کا نــادا‬۱(‫ ‏‬Top Producer ،‫و ســت ونکــوور بــرای ســه ســال پیا پــی‬ ‫ نفــر نخســت در ســطح ملــی و منطق ـه‌ای‬۱۰ ‫ و قــرار گرفتــن در بیــن‬Diamond ‫ بر نــده ی جا یــزه ی‬،Medallion Club .‫ میلیــون دالر فــروش را بــه ثبــت برســاند‬100 ‫ تــا بــه ا مــروز بیــش از‬2021 ‫ او توانســته ا ســت تنهــا در ســال‬.‫ا شــاره کــرد‬

Amir Hamzehali is a Royal Lepage Top Producer (top 1% in Canada) holding the NUMBER 1 place for 4 years, Member of the Chairman’s Club, Medallion Club Member, Diamond Award winner, National and Regional Member of The Top Ten Club as an Individual.

Amir is a real estate expert specializing in the Vancouver Luxury Housing Market. It took him less than 8 years to rise to one of the city’s best and most successful, with over $750 million in sales. Amir has brought forth his own unique combination of creativity, ingenuity, and individuality to his business. He has streamlined the selling process and contoured the buying process, simplifying every step for his Client.

He has hired the most astute people and supports them with the best management and training. He has tapped into the Asian market maintaining a strong networking connection in the Chinese Community locally and overseas. Amir prides himself in being a one-stop-shop for all Buyers and Sellers. He has educated his team to listen and understand Client needs to ultimately achieve his Client’s goals and, in many cases, exceed their expectations. What makes the difference and sets Team Hamzehali apart from the rest is all members work together with the Client’s best interest at heart.

AMIR IS #1 REALTOR IN 2016, 2017, 2018, AND 2020

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ALEPH MAGAZINE

1529 Vinson Creek West Vancouver $ 10,998,000

460 Hillcrest ST West Vancouver $ 5,298,000

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‫‪­­__ ABOUT ALEPH‬‬

‫‪ABOUT ALEPH‬‬

‫درباره الف‌‬

‫‪ALEPH is Canada’s first Persian lifestyle magazine based in‬‬ ‫‪Vancouver dedicated to give stablished businesses a voice‬‬ ‫‪for Iranian community, helping them to reach this untapped‬‬ ‫‪and active segments of population.‬‬ ‫‪ALEPH is a seasonal magazine that offers a space both in print‬‬ ‫‪and online. It sheds light on what is important and relevant at‬‬ ‫‪the present moment, bridging the gap between the East and‬‬ ‫‪the West.‬‬

‫الــف نخســتین مجلــه فاخــر فارســی انگلیســی اســت کــه در شــهر ونکــوور بــه‬ ‫چــاپ می‌رســد‪ .‬مجلــه الــف می‌کوشــد ارتبــاط شایســته‌ای بیــن بیزینس‌هــای‬ ‫بــا کیفیــت و جامعــه ایرانــی‪ -‬کانادایــی ایجــاد کنــد تــا بــه راحتــی قــادر باشــند‬ ‫یکدیگــر را بیابنــد‪.‬‬ ‫ایــن مجلــه بــه صــورت فصلــی و بــه دو شــیوه چاپــی و دیجیتالــی عرضــه‬ ‫مــی شــود و بــا ارایــه نــوآوری هــای روز‪ ،‬نقــش ویــژه ای را در ارایــه محصوالت‬ ‫غربــی و شــرقی ایفــا می‌کنــد‪.‬‬

‫‪We believe that luxury is encompassed in the exclusive, in the‬‬

‫مجلــه الــف بــر ایــن بــاور اســت کــه زندگــی اعــا‪ ،‬مکانــی بــرای تجلــی‬ ‫نوآوری‌هــای منحصــر بــه فــرد اســت‪ .‬نــوآوری هایــی کــه حاصــل تــاش‬ ‫حرفــه ای تریــن و حســاس تریــن تولیــد کننــدگان جهــان اســت و تجلــی آن هــا را‬ ‫می‌تــوان درطراحــی اتومبیل‌هــا‪ ،‬خانه‌هــا‪ ،‬جواهــرات و مجموعــه هــای لوکــس‬ ‫خانگــی پیــدا کــرد‪.‬‬

‫‪allows Westerners to gain a better, more authentic understanding‬‬

‫مجلــه الــف بــا بــه نمایــش گذاشــتن ایــن محصــوالت و خدمــات‪ ،‬الهــام بخــش‬ ‫کســانی خواهــد بــود کــه مایلنــد ارزش افــزوده جدیــدی برگرفتــه شــده از‬ ‫ســبک غربــی و یــا شــرقی در زندگــی خــود بیابنــد‪.‬‬

‫‪unique, in the never-before-seen or experienced. These can be‬‬ ‫‪through fine dining, luxury automobiles, high-end fashion,‬‬ ‫‪premium travel destinations, high quality products and‬‬ ‫‪services which play an important role in refining our‬‬ ‫‪experiences and inspiring us to seek out more. It effortlessly‬‬ ‫‪of Persian culture and traditions, while helping Iranians living in‬‬ ‫‪Canada discover Western customs and values.‬‬

‫‪ALEPH MAGAZINE‬‬

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www.samanbakery.com ALEPH MAGAZINE

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__ PUBLISHER’S NOTE

A MOUNTAIN OF GRATITUDE For a mountain of work

Dear reader, Whew! Here we are at our second edition of Aleph, and honestly, it’s like a dream come true. I couldn’t be happier. Mostly because the success of the first edition was beyond my wildest dreams.

The truth is that the first edition was a mountain of work, and thanks are due to the people that made it possible.

Before I do that, though, I’d like to thank you, our readers, for the love and support you’ve shown us. We’ve received incredibly positive feedback from so many people but what makes me the most proud is the fact that a lot of positive feedback came from those outside the Persian community.

For me this was a major coup, as this was, and still is, my vision for this publication. A way to bridge the gap. A connection between communities. A showcase of artistry, entrepreneurship, collaboration and connection within this melting pot that is Canada. So thank you to all of our readers and advertisers.

I would also like to send a huge shout out to every one of my 13 team members at Geeky Marketing, as well as the many contributors that helped make the magic happen. I’ve always been passionate about supporting local artists and business owners, and showing just how world-class we are as a community.

Aleph is a testament to this fact.

As much as we are basking in the love and attention showered upon us from the first edition — yes I sound over the top, but the feeling is genuine — production on the second edition started almost immediately and I’m so proud of the amazing work we’re featuring here. So, grab a tea, sit back in your favourite comfy chair, and spend some time with our second edition. And let us know what you think. We love hearing from you.

Farhad Mehrabi, Publisher ALEPH 6

ALEPH MAGAZINE

604 281 3886 . rezasaatchijewellery.com ALEPH MAGAZINE

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__ CONTENTS

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Issue 02 — Spring 2021 10 Pourang Taheri 12 Armani Casa 16 Serac Studios 19 Sara Mehjoo 30 David Christopher 34 Reza Kohan 36 Creme De La Creme 38 Elham Rezaei 42 Nostalgia 53 Team Rhino 56 Peyman Salari 60 Terminal City Club 62 DEA College

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64 Persian-Style Sushi 70 BijanLaw

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74

81

88

Ayoub’s Dried Fruits & Nuts

The Grande Family Chiropractic

Ilya Development

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84

90

Business in Pakistan

Eskandar Yamini

Hasti La Vista

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86

94

AnyVisa

Kambiz Sharif

Matt Gul

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Visionary Business Leader & Entrepreneur Pourang Taheri

A person who runs multiple businesses at once is called a serial entrepreneur, and at the age of 39, Pourang Taheri already falls under that category. With four successful ventures under his belt, Pourang is a leading business owner and entrepreneur in Vancouver. With his wealth of experience in the financial services sector, he has raised over $20M in capital across all of his projects.

Without a doubt, he has established himself as an industry leader in some of Vancouver’s most competitive industries.

Before starting his entrepreneurial journey, Pourang was previously a partner at Abana Capital Investments and a controller for Corriente Resources which was later acquired for $1B. In his most prominent role at Arete Venture, he has not only worked on $250M multi-unit real estate development projects but was also overseeing the Arete Queens Landing Townhome Project - a $24M site that was completed in 2019 and built 14 townhomes.

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Entrepreneurship & Beyond

The Bottom Line

From being an employee in some of Vancouver’s top

When it comes to logistics, demanding responsibilities

investment firms to being a locally-recognized business

require a logistically-smart business model. In this case,

owner, Pourang has proven himself as a force to be reckoned

structuring multiple businesses under one roof is a smart

with. Currently, he is the Co-founder and Managing Partner

and efficient approach. Currently, all four businesses are

of Arete Venture Capital Corp, a company that leads with

operated from a stunning office located along the

profitable development investments. Arete invests in early-

shimmering waters of the North Shore. Having a central

stage series A financing and technology-related firms, as

location saves on shared resources between companies and

well as luxury, multi-unit townhomes and wood and concrete

enables Pourang to dedicate his time to all four ventures.

high rises.

From meetings and consultations to various commitments

Pourang is also the Founder, President and CEO of Dumont & Co. Accounting Ltd. He launched Dumont with the goal of delivering smart solutions to the complex challenges companies face, especially in today’s competitive marketplace. Since 2009, this award-winning accounting and finance firm has been helping individuals, businesses and organizations achieve both financial and personal success.

Continuing to make his mark across Vancouver’s financial sectors, Pourang is also Vice President of Hera Investment Funds - a company that provides clients with safe and secure services to maximize returns on mortgage investments.

that require his physical presence, this structure keeps his businesses on the same path towards growth. His presence, as well as that of his colleagues, enables them to prioritize what requires their undivided attention. This makes for the seamless integration of innovative ideas and solutions across all individual platforms.

Looking ahead, Pourang’s mission lies in keeping all four companies moving in a direction that is developing each individual brand. With a limitless vision for growth, he wants to preserve existing partnerships and make new ones that will continue to elevate these ventures for years to come.

Reaching across the tech sector, Pourang is also the Managing Partner and CFO of Yocale Network, a startup tech company that aims to connect consumers with local businesses. As if all of that wasn’t impressive enough already, Pourang is also Co-founder of TK Consulting, a financial services company that helps over 300 small and mediumsized businesses reach their goals and grow their capital.

604 998 1919

www.dumontco.ca ︱ pourang@dumontco.ca

200-889 Harbourside Dr, North Vancouver, BC, V7P 3S1

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ARMANI/CASA Turns 20 Vancouver Showroom Celebrates with the Presentation of New Collection “It has been exactly twenty years since, with the launch of the first Armani/Casa collection, I began to structure the project of a total lifestyle, extending my vision and aesthetics to interior decorating. Today, Armani/Casa has become an established design force and still represents now, as it did at the beginning, a stimulating opportunity, the place where research and experimenting give life to objects and environments that reflect my idea of design, luxurious and essential.

Thus, unique, sophisticated atmospheres take shape from a taste for the most precious materials, enhanced by pure lines, exquisite craftsmanship and natural, harmonious colors.”

Giorgio Armani There is a taste for decorating interiors that tells of a sense of beauty –contemporary yet deeply rooted– where every material, every object, every detail attests to an original fusion of creativity and expert craftsmanship. That taste engendered the Armani/Casa project, which celebrates its twentieth anniversary today. Originated from the curiosity of exploring new environments –emerged as early as in the 1980s with the Logo Lamp, which at the time became the hallmark of the entire line– and fed by the extraordinary ability to imagine subtle exchanges between different sensibilities and cultures, the project represents the practical extensions of the aesthetic ideal of Giorgio Armani beyond the confines of fashion. Since its early days, the new world of interior decorating reflects the constant dialogue between minimalism and décor, tradition and innovation. Oriental inspirations from the 1920s and Art Déco, shapes, elements and colors taken from the world of nature –a privileged habitat where dream meets reality– guide over the years collections that create refined atmospheres.

The allure of the 1930s-1940s aesthetics, that often inspired the designer in his fashion creations, is found in the design of furniture and home accessories, evoked, without nostalgia, by the constant interplay of references to the past and attention to the present. Looking at the work of the most renowned French decorators of the time, the designer chooses precious materials –mother-of-pearl, galuchat, rare woods– and enhances their beauty with unusual pairings and details that bring out their uniqueness.

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few steps away from the historic Brera district and via Montenapoleone.

Since then, many projects of luxury residences in the world’s major cities have been designed and completed, of fering original solutions both for home interior s and for multifor m amenities in residential complexes: from Manila to Mumbai, from Miami to Istanbul, from Tel Aviv to Chengdu, from London to Beijing and New York. In 2015, The Ar t of Living, a retrospec tive exhibition of the most significant projects designed by Interior Design Studio Armani/Casa around the world was inaugurated in Milan and presented later in Beijing in 2016.

Every object is the result of a complex,

The “Armani/Casa Exclusive Textiles by

painstaking process from research to

Rubelli” line, launched in 2009, offers

design, from experimenting to the

luxury textiles.

final production. In a close dialogue with the best Italian master craftsmen, which reveals a renewed interes t in rediscovering processes used by small local manufac turers, ever y element of Armani/Casa –furniture,

Collection” was launched in 2014, as a partnership between Armani/Casa and Jannelli&Volpi for the creation of wall coverings.

home accessories, wall and f loor

In 2 0 0 4, to ad d re s s the g rowing

coverings and textiles–tells a stor y.

demand for bespoke designer projects

Like the precious and delicate Murano

for private clients and developers, the

glass, created by skilled master glass

Interior Design Studio was established:

makers, that become lamps with a solid

the service of interior design with high

and contemporary look. And again, in

qualitative standards to reflec t the

the sophisticated manual techniques

principles of elegance and harmony of

of Ocean Lacques, that recreate

Armani’s aesthetics. The first important

the effect of water transparency on

achievement is the 2010 inauguration

surfaces or straw marquetry, the craft

of the Armani Hotel in Dubai’s Burj

of applying straw ribbons previously

Khalifa, followed by the 2011 opening

flattened by hand.

of the second Armani Hotel in Milan, a

The 2017 opening of the world’s largest retail store, in corso Venezia, Milan, marked yet another major achievement.

The store opens onto one of the city’s most beautiful streets, and through its sophisticated ambiances, showcases the essence of Giorgio Armani’s design in a space imagined as a fluid atelier, versatile and constantly evolving.

Over

the

years,

Armani/Casa

has

created authentic collection pieces for special occasions, like the Justin desk, produced in a limited edition of

Armani/Casa

40 numbered pieces to celebrate the

project broadened its horizons further,

company’s 40th anniversar y or the

embracing a total vision of style. From

exclusive Logo Lamp limited edition,

the collaborations with specialized

to celebrate the 35th anniversary of its

companies, world leaders in their fields,

creation.

Over

the

years,

the

the collection encompasses all home environments.

Since

2008

Armani/

Dada has been designing functional kitchen interiors, while, from 2010, Armani/Roca focuses on concepts for the bathroom.

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“Armani/Casa Exclusive Wall-coverings

ALEPH MAGAZINE

Today, Armani/Casa has a commercial network all over the world, with stores in major cities, including Milan, Paris, London, New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Tokyo, Shanghai and Beijing.

Armani/Casa Vancouver celebrates the anniversary with the presentation of items from the

2020 Collection.

Please call our showroom for a personalized presentation.

Armani/Casa Vancouver 1656 W 2nd Ave Vancouver BC V6J 1H4 Office: + 1 604-423-2814

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Designs for Life with Soha Sepehri B.Arch, Interior Designer & Co-Founder of Serac Studios

Interior Designer, Co-founder, Soha is passionate about her work.

Soha encompasses the Artistic side of SERAC Studios in Vancouver.

Her creative expression can be credited to her artistically-minded family, particularly her father, a pioneer and architecture professor from Florence, Italy. Her rich journey in the industry emanates from a background in design and architecture. This rare and multi-faceted fusion of skills is the perfect complement to her abilities in fulfilling her clients’ visions using high-end software and her style.

RED PINE RESIDENCE PROJECT

By SERAC STUDIOS

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ALEPH MAGAZINE

A Passion to Create Nature is the essence of Soha’s work. She pulls inspiration from the world around her while analysing every project’s history, location, and architecture. With a diverse portfolio, she consistently pushes boundaries on the eco-friendliness of her designs. She has crafted a union between contemporary, traditional, vintage, classic and trendy. Whether her clients require elaborate design or a custom home renovation, her professionalism, friendly demeanour and industry experience are vital forces of her success. These are the traits of her alternative and bespoke Approach.

Surpassing her clients’ expectations is a vital motivating factor as she delivers dream outcomes while meeting her clients’ target goals. Whether working with time constraints, a tight budget or a tricky location, her drive to provide value is unmistakable.

A Collaborative Effort With her talented and highly-skilled team, Serac collaborates with builders, Renovators, Architects to save clients time and money through a turn-key design-build experience. For projects requiring profoundly unique or demanding design concepts, Serac collaborates with industry-leading architects. The clients of realtors can also benefit from discounted interior design consultations.

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Custom-Tailored Services From small-scale residential remodels to large-scale commercial renovations, Serac offers support at every stage of construction. Offering a full range of services, the crew’s experience, attention to detail and commitment to excellence has helped shape countless dream properties throughout Vancouver. Above and beyond designing and renovating homes, Serac provides an interior styling service where thoughtful finishing touches establish a sense of harmony, balance and character.

Clients will be taken on a design mission all around Vancouver and online to source out accessories, soft furnishings and oneof-a-kind pieces for their homes.

Serac also offers virtual staging, a service exclusively created for realtors, developers, and home builders. The process in which they can virtually add or remove furniture and apply and modify the finishes in the space they already have or building. Their concept will be modelled in 3d beforehand. Both homeowners and business professionals can benefit from the efficient, visual and accurate nature of virtual staging.

Soha and the Serac team are dedicated to telling their clients’ stories using expressive design narratives. Whether a homeowner is looking to turn their house into a home or a business owner looking to establish their signature style, Serac will always prioritize a dream outcome.

604 312 6047 soha@seracstudios.com · seracstudios.com @seracstudios @sohasep_design

CRUISE SHIP PROJECT

By SERAC STUDIOS

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ALEPH MAGAZINE

SARA MEHJOO Mortgage Broker

PROFESSIONAL & CUSTOMIZED MORTGAGE ADVICE FOR EVERY STAGE OF YOUR LIFE. Whether you are purchasing a home, looking to transfer a mortgage or refinancing an existing mortgage to consolidate debt, I can help you find the best mortgage solution. I am available outside of normal banking hours, including evenings and weekends, to suit your schedule. Whether you are a first time home buyer or a seasoned homeowner, I am committed to making your mortgage experience comfortable and easy. I have helped many clients all over Greater Vancouver during my past 16 years of service in the financial industry; I look forward to providing you with professional financial advice and exceptional customer service.

778 829 2785 maapp.ca/app/sara-mehjoo sara@vancouver-mortgage.ca Unit 102B-6321 King George Blvd, Surrey, BC, V3X 1G1 ALEPH MAGAZINE

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Maserati Levante. Experience an SUV like no other.

Yours from $96,960.*

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ALEPH MAGAZINE

Immerse yourself in the exclusive world of Maserati and discover the beautiful range of luxury sedans, SUVs and coupes. As the only official Maserati dealership in Vancouver, we invite you to experience elegant Italian style and exhilarating performance with every drive. We share your passion for cars and provide a welcoming atmosphere where you can stop by for a coffee or talk about the latest vehicles and upcoming dealership events.

Visit our showroom at 1860 Burrard street, we look forward to welcoming you!

604.215.8778

•

1860 Burrard St.

•

Vancouver, BC

•

maserativancouver.com

ALEPH MAGAZINE

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Reza Aslani BMW Canada Gold Sales Master #1 in Canada in 2018 & 2020 Top 3 in Canada 2015 - 2020

604-250-7184 raslani@brianjesselbmw.com

The Ultimate Driving Experience.®

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__ MASTHEAD

President & Editor in chief Farhad Mehrabi Art Director Roya Momeni Account Manager Mobina Masnavi Cover Design Artist Roya Momeni Layout Design Artists Saloumeh Raeesi, Sogol Tafteh Copy Editors Elene Boycheva, Azi Yousefi Photographer Kamran Safari Communication Manager Ardalan Lotfian Digital Artist Matheus Wohlenberg Web Specialist Zin Ng Visual Coordinators S M Wahidun Nabi, Shekoufeh Kharajinezhad Special Thanks to Christopher Dallin Advertising Inquiries 1-604-620-6206 info@alephmagazine.com

Issue 02 — Spring 2021

On The Cover The model on the cover of this issue is Parinaz Parizad, priorly photographed in 2020. Additional artwork on top of the cover was later conceived by graphic designer Roya Momeni, representing one of the notorious cards used in games and magic tricks. The Queen of hearts evokes the feelings of unconditional and caring love of a Persian woman.

aleph.magazine

Executive Office 1123 - 409 Granville St., Vancouver, BC V6C 1T2, Canada 604-620-6206 www.alephmagazine.com Published by Geeky Marketing This soft yet durable paper you’re touching is called Stone Paper®️. An ecofriendly and sustainable alternative to mainstream papers. We went through countless types of papers for ALEPH, and we chose Stone Paper®️ because it is the one we all can be proud of.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted by any form or by any means, including photocopying or other electronic or mechanical methods, without prior written permission of the editor, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law.

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ALEPH MAGAZINE

BOUTIQUE IN BRENTWOOD WITH

SPACE TO LIVE WELL

MLA

NOW SELLING 1 & 2 BEDROOM CONCRETE CONDOS & 3 BEDROOM PENTHOUSES 2 BEDROOM HOMES FROM $791,900 Book a private in-person appointment or Interactive Home Tour today Call or text us at 604.299.9191 · info@alaskabyamacon.com

ALASKALIVING.CA Presentation Centre located at 4455 Alaska St. Burnaby The developer reserves the right to make changes, modifications or substitutes to the building design, specifications and floorplans should they be necessary.

Renderings, views, and layouts are for illustration purposes only. Sales powered by MLA Canada Realty. E.&O.E.

ALEPH MAGAZINE

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ALEPH MAGAZINE

If you can dream it, we can make it happen!

If you’re looking for integrity, quality and expertise in custom clothing, then you’ve come to the right place .We are deeply committed to our clients, fanatical about fit, and obsessed over quality. Our mission is to help you look and feel your best every day that you’re in our clothes – and we mean EVERY day and in every situation.

We don’t just make bespoke suits; we make custom clothing for all occasions from the beach to the boardroom. We believe shopping should be enjoyable and you should be served by a dedicated professional you know and trust. If this sounds like your kind of place, then please schedule a time to meet with us and see if we are the right fit for you.

778 323 6797 contact@majestybespoke.com

◇

www.majestybespoke.com

ALEPH MAGAZINE

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__ CONTRIBUTORS

Issue 02 — Spring 2021

VIDEOGRAPHER S M WAHIDUN NABI MAHDI HAJIBABAEI

MAKEUP & HAIR ARTISTS LEILA DEHGHAN

STYLISTS POUNEH ASKARIAN SENATOR BESPOKE

MODELS RAELEIGH JADE NIKKI ZECHA

TAYLOR GAYLARD

ARSHIN MASJOUDI SHIREEN NANDAL

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The Man Behind West Vancouver’s Signature Estates

AN INTERVIEW WITH DAVID CHRISTOPHER

In our last issue, we featured one of your homes in West Vancouver on the waterfront. In that article, we identified you as an architect. Today, we are here to set the record straight so you can explain to our readers exactly what it is that you do.

I will begin with what we first see on your website: “We are designers, not architects”. What does this mean?

Well, to be clear, nobody in our firm has ever been a registered architect. When I started the company in 1992, I set out to design great homes with a comprehensive service where we design all aspects of a house, from its interior and exterior all the way to the landscape design. I can’t express enough that design covers all aspects of a great building, not just the

it’s just like breathing. I think it’s easy to do things that are perceived to be difficult if they truly drive you.

We know you have been the “darling” of the exclusive West Vancouver high-end speculative market with

realtors vying to get one of your listings. Tell us, what makes your homes so successful?

The houses I design are created like any high-end product. They are a fully three-dimensional experience targeted to a specific buyer - a buyer I’ve never met.

Each project is an adventure of design, style and passion all created to touch the heart of the future owner.

You make it very clear that you are not an architect.

That creating and designing is the majority of what I do.

Why is this so important to you?

I don’t have an official, specific title but it has always been important for me to distinguish what I do. Design brings with it a sense of limitlessness, and additionally, we fit into a very unique niche of residential development strategists.

It’s actually a small component of my business day as a tremendous amount of time is spent on the job site.

Generally, I am at our sites three times a week, often once a day. Once a client engages us, our service is unlimited as we don’t track or charge by the hour. In addition, our homes are crafted. There is no “recipe” and going over details on site is how we achieve the

How did you begin?

end results.

It’s a funny story actually. I knew from the age of six that

What are some exciting projects that you’re currently

final year of high school, I graduated with honours in drafting and ceramics, which led me to design school thereafter.

@davidchristopheryvr | info@fx40.com

I don’t have a simple answer for this. After thirty years,

Tell us a misconception about David Christopher.

following the West Vancouver real estate market. In my

working on?

All of the projects that we are working on are exciting.

We have homes all across West Vancouver, from Caulfeild to Waterfront, Westmount and Dundarave all the way to the British Pacific Properties; as well as one

Design school graduation landed me a huge opportunity

in Edgemont Village. We have several very large homes

with a Richmond design and development firm. My first

underway and one that we call the Crown Jewel, which

project with them was to design a 5,000 square foot

may be the most expensive speculative build in West

house at Panorama Ridge in 1989! On this project, I

Vancouver’s history. Stay tuned on that one. We also

spent most of my time on the job site learning. As a

launched The Searenity Collection in New York City in

dedicated young man, I asked all of the different trades

November of 2019 with the world’s first Hyper Cabana,

questions and they were all happy to explain and teach.

which is now under production.

I spent two years with that company learning not just

What are your plans for the future and where do you

design, but also construction and development. This practical knowledge and experience became irreplaceable education.

Can you please explain what makes your service so unique in our city?

I would say there are very few firms that design all aspects of significant homes. I personally commit to designing each of our homes from a blank sheet of paper - our greatest differentiator in the marketplace.

Each home is unique and specifically designed and crafted for its location in order to fully maximize the potential of each individual property.

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all of this information and creativity?

exterior.

I would design great houses. At the age of nine, I started

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With this custom home concept, how do you manage

see yourself 10 years from now?

Here! This is my city and I have no intention of leaving it. A decade from now I can see expansion into international markets and certainly more design products.

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PREMIER ONE PROPERTIES Custom Luxury Homes

Real Estate Investment

Design by David Christopher

We build our projects with your dreams and ideas 604.353.7711 | info@premieroneproperties.ca IMAGE NO: POP01-004

ECT NAME:

4238 ROCKRIDGE

ECT ADDRESS:

4238 ROCKRIDGE, WEST VANCOUVER

ITECT:

I

CLIENT: PREMIER ONE PROPERTIES -

-

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DATE:

STATUS:

01/18/2021

ISSUED FOR APPROVAL

01/28/2021

RE-ISSUED FOR APPROVAL

02/03/2021

ISSUED FOR FINAL

02/26/2021

RE-ISSUED FOR FINAL

www.premieroneproperties.ca

www.virtual3dstudio.com

‫هشت پنت هاوسی که تا به امروز رونمايي نشده اند‪ ،‬به زندگي لوکس منطقه نورت شور معناي نويني خواهند بخشيد‪.‬‬ ‫اين واحد ها در قلب الينز گيت واقع شده اند و تمامي آنها مناظری بي نقص به پل الينز گيت و دان تاون را دارند‪ .‬همچنین‬ ‫مناظر بورارد اینلت و‌ کوههاي نورت شور در دوردست به زیبایی منظره افزوده است‪.‬‬ ‫در هر طبقه صرفا دو واحد ‪ 2400‬اسکور فيت با طراحي داخلي و خارجي منحصر به فرد ساخته شده است‪.‬‬ ‫تحويل اواسط سال ‪2022‬‬ ‫‪Completion Mid-2022‬‬

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Driven by Intelligence.

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Real estate agent, CPA and co-founder of iKOR Development Inc., Reza Kohan is a multi-disciplined professional with expertise that is far-reaching across Greater Vancouver’s real estate sector.

With over $500 million worth of sales in the last four years, his commitment and negotiation skills have earned him a name as one of Metro Vancouver’s most successful real estate agents.

Currently, Reza Kohan is an agent with Royal Pacific Lion Gate Realty, with vast experience in marketing and selling homes all across Greater Vancouver. He is also active in his community, being a board member of the Ambleside & Dundrave Business Association (ADBIA).

In addition to having extensive experience as a developer, his role as a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and trusted financial advisor has allowed him to help clients reach their financial goals. His comprehensive body of work has given him the dynamic set of skills necessary to get the most out of what the market has to offer, regardless of its inevitable fluctuations.

Reza Kohan’s enthusiastic and proactive approach is complemented by a set of brilliant strategies that ensure his clients succeed, every time. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, selling property or a seasoned investor, his impressive network of contacts, ability to maximize listing exposure and commitment to surpassing client expectations is second to none. Passionate about real-world results, he custom-tailors the process according to the unique needs of every client, ensuring the greatest return on investment, in the least amount of time.

Being an excellent marketer, negotiator and strategist, Reza is your key to a successful purchase.

With a passionate and motivated demeanour, he continues to make waves across Vancouver’s real estate landscape and the projects he pursues.

604.721.8050

|

reza@rezakohan.com

|

www.rezakohan.com ALEPH MAGAZINE

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Ayda discovered her vocation for creating decadent creams, puffs and cakes early on. It was no doubt that the art of pastrymaking would become her life.

“I love my job. It’s more love than it is passion because passion passes, but love stays.” And indeed it has stayed.

After multiple years of experience in the world of culinary and pastry arts, she is not only a chef but also a pastry artist. Today, Aida is founder of Creme de la Creme Patisserie, eager to make your events sweeter and more cheerful.

cdelac.ca | info@cdelac.ca

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Ayda Momeni Pastry Artist

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ELHAM REZAEI Mutual Fund Representative Insurance Agent 778 321 9467

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER FINANCIAL LITERACY I believe everyone deserves to be financially secure. But in Canada, a wealthy nation with plenty of opportunity, financial security is still a challenge, especially for immigrants.

Knowledge is power and if you lack that knowledge, you can expect an uphill climb — even in retirement.

I can help. Whether you need expert help for yourself, your family or your business, I bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and expertise to the mix and my many happy clients are proof. My secret? Hard work, a proven process and a personal touch. I’m an active listener, and I work right alongside my clients to get an intimate understanding of their needs. From there I use my significant training and comprehension of how needs change over time, and how financial plans should adapt and change as your life evolves.

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A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE My story is unique as I was my own first client. I realized that if I could be my own agent of change and see growth, then I could do the same for others. Today, my position as a mutual fund representative and insurance agent gives me unique insight into the world of saving,

growing wealth, protecting loved ones and planning a robust financial legacy. I do this through a diverse skill set and a full knowledge of

insurance, mutual funds, savings and wealth building. I work hard to assemble a range of products that meet your needs today, tomorrow and years into the future.

A BESPOKE APPROACH I’ve come to learn that everyone has a diverse set of needs. Cookiecutter solutions just don’t work in this day and age. Knowledge of the markets and data-driven insights is how it’s done today. That’s why I offer custom solutions based on a solid, professional working relationship with my clients that help educate them on the various products I offer and the insights I uncover. At the core of my service is my ability to really listen and to fully understand your goals and ambitions. I work side by side with you and when I’m confident I understand your needs, I craft a plan based on proven strategies that actually work.

HONESTY IS THE BEST POLICY

From Success

in the Culinary Arts

to a Rewarding Career in Financial Advising

The trust I’ve built up over the years with my clients is based on a truthful and honest approach. Transparency is at the heart of my success. The truth is, an expertly managed, fully transparent and disciplined longterm approach is the key to your legacy and success. I don’t overpromise, and I don’t underdeliver. What I do deliver are effective solutions to your problems and I help you understand the changes you need to make in order to attain your goals. The truth is, I love what I do, because I see the faces of my clients light up when they see the progress they’re making and their dreams coming to life. What could possibly be better?

AN EYE ON THE HORIZON I am your trusted guide as I take you from where you are, to where you want to be. I share my knowledge and insights to help you become educated and fully aware of your own financial state today — and your goals for tomorrow. We take on this challenge together, and we share in your success. It’s not a walk to the corner store. It’s more of a trip around the world. Let’s start your journey today.

World Financial Group (WFG) consists of: In Canada, World Financial Group Insurance Agency of Canada Inc. (WFGIA), which offers Life Insurance and Segregated Funds.

WFG Securities Inc. (WFGS), which offers Mutual Funds.

Headquarters: 5000 Yonge Street, Suite 800, Toronto, ON M2N 7E9.

Phone: 416.225.2121

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“For every project, our team take the time to truly gain a thorough understanding of

your style and desired outcome for result that surpass your expectation-while staying on schedule and within budget.

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Georgie Award Customer Satisfaction

Georgie Award Best Custom Home

AWARD WINNER DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

We were honored to have been recognized by our peers and receive some of the most distinguishable awards. We were also proud to announce that we were a finalist in two categories for 2019’s Ovation Awards.

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Fashion in 2020

Millennial Nostalgia

from Nostalgic trends to Data forecasting

For the remainder of 2021 and going into 2022, here are a few

2020 left us all speechless. It’s crazy to think about how many

changes to expect from the fashion industry: nostalgic fashion

incidents can happen in almost 12 months, but this year was one

with a sense of belonging and comfort. This year is all about

big roller coaster ride. We faced many world-changing events

adjustments. Fashion also has to adjust to the new norms in this

that caused an unusual uncertainty for individuals and

new era. Peoples’ attires are highly connected to their feelings

organizations. The fashion industry certainly was no exception

and emotions. The interesting prospect for this year shows that

and was also affected by these alarming events. The majority of

the majority want to dress in a way that feels better instead of

people think of the fashion industry as the razzle-dazzle of a

seeking the approval of others.

catwalk. The fact is that the value of the fashion and apparel

Nowadays, it’s all about casual, comfortable outfits. Sweatpants

market is continually growing, making it one of the biggest industries worldwide.

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have made a total comeback in the fashion industry. Designer brands showcased upscale sweatsuits on the runways and every

“Revenue in the global Fashion segment is projected to reach

single catwalk. Hundreds of celebrities and influencers are

US$665,629m in 2020. Revenue is expected to show an annual

showing off their styles, matching cool sweatpants with a designer

growth rate (CAGR 2020-2025) of 8.5%, resulting in a projected

blazer. In other words, the trend is to dress it up on the top and

market volume of US$1,002,215m by 2025.” - statista.com

keeping it laid-back on the bottom. Denim and loungewear

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DRESS __ POUNEH ASKARIAN INSTAGARM __ @POUNEHASKARIAN 44 ALEPH MAGAZINE

(pyjamas, robes, leggings) had huge growth in the apparel industry as well.

Something else has been impacted by the pandemic: We started to develop a new appreciation for our previous lives and we spent some time reflecting on the past. The forecasted trend seems to be inspired by nostalgia narratives. In other words, this is an unpredictable time for all of us so we want to see something nostalgic that brings us a sense of comfort, trust and acquaintance.

Data Forecasting & Digitization The future of fashion is data-driven. Back in the days, fashion forecasters mainly considered economic influences, political movements, climate changes, and social media trends. Now, they use advanced data analysis to understand their customers’ patterns of purchase and closely observe their shopping behaviour. Gathering this valuable information will lead to products and designs that fulfill target market needs. Data helps brands to create innovative production methods and balance

“The feeling of a lack of control is one of life’s biggest stressors.

supply and demand. It benefits the fashion industry in

Because so much is out of our control at the moment and there

sustainability. By efficiently producing pieces customers actually

is so much uncertainty, we resort to something that we can

wear, manufacturers are reducing waste.

control, like our memories of the past,” explains behavioural

Consumers are now aware that fashion has long been one of

psychologist and author of The Psychology Fashion, Carolyn Mair. “People have always looked back to the golden olden days because it makes us feel good to do so. We associate nostalgia with positive feelings and experiences, and we want to relive those feelings during times of upheaval.”

the biggest contributors to waste and unsustainable production.

Now they want their values reflected through their clothes, therefore they support smaller, sustainable labels and shop from brands that take a stand for the environment. In other words, we are noticing a rise of slow fashion and a decline of fast

On a closer look, the fashion trend for this year is a shocker, just

fashion which was popular for its ability to quickly produce

like 2020 itself. It is not simply a way of clothing or physical

numerous runway looks. Slow fashion is a movement of

appearance, it is mostly connected with our minds and

producing in lower quantities and using manufacturing with

emotions. Brand strategists have one main objective: bringing

respect to people, the environment, and animals. It is also about

us back great memories associated with old times. To create a

companies being more transparent and using eco-friendly

new product line, they continuously analyse our past

materials.

generations; what people have enjoyed or what they might

The future of fashion is also digital. This trend is not only limited

have wanted but couldn’t get.

to online shopping. Successful fashion brands are quickly

Social media is also promoting vintage and timelessness.

adopting the latest digital technologies like AR and VR. They

Throwback Instagram accounts from the 60s, 70s and 90s boast

create a digital shopping experience by offering virtual

millions of followers. They can visually celebrate vintage fashion

showrooms, virtual fittings and sizing tools. A few brands also

by scrolling rare, old photographs from their favourite icons and

stepped further ahead by using 3D collections on avatar models.

celebrities.

Using digital technologies brings an enormous amount of

“Whether it’s fashion publications or celebrities posting throwback images, nostalgic content comprises a big portion of what resonates with viewers these days,” says James, founder of Nineties Anxiety.

Nostalgic inspiration can arise anywhere from classic movies and old runway photographs to vintage magazines. We all take style inspirations from the past consciously or unconsciously, but in fashion trend forecasting, the notion of nostalgia seems to remain the world of fashion for years to come.

opportunity for the fashion industry. My favourite one is for designers to test out ideas virtually and float them with their team before actually creating the physical pieces.

Physical fashion shows and stores have a magical charm that cannot be replaced by online events and avatar models. But this year, the first-ever remote fashion week was a strong indicator that if you can’t implement the latest technology to your brand, your business may not stand the test of time.

In 2021, we have to be ready to see many changes in the fashion industry, from nostalgia trends to adopting the latest technologies, but also we’ll see a surge of slow fashion supporting sustainability.

By Pouneh Askarian ALEPH MAGAZINE

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Redefining Real Estate Development

“There simply isn’t a project, large or small, that we won’t manage without organization, transparency, professionalism, and skill.”

604-379-4560 52

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info@ikor.ca

I

200-1590 Bellevue Avenue, West Vancouver, BC, V7V 1A7

TEAM RHINO REAL ESTATE

A FULL SERVICE REAL ESTATE MARKETING, SALES, AND MORTGAGE ADVISORY TEAM Established by Iman Sami Kashkooli, Team Rhino of Vanak Realty is a multi-disciplinary, multinational real estate team that specializes in the representation of buyers and sellers across all areas of real estate. The team’s mission is to modernize and progress the experience of buying and selling real estate by cultivating a spirit of collaboration, innovation and integrity.

Team Rhino provides financing solutions, rental services, renovation services and construction management through its affiliated companies. With a track record that speaks for itself, Team Rhino takes pride in its members’ superb abilities to engage in savvy negotiations, likes of which have helped record some of the most successful sales and purchases of real estate in the Greater Vancouver area. With members all across BC, Team Rhino’s expertise is just a phone call away.

They foster a culture of partnership in which clients and listings are represented in a cooperative environment to ensure a competitive edge. By leveraging the most emergent technologies and social media strategies, it is a lifestyle team committed to informing and connecting global communities. With offices in North Vancouver, Shanghai and Shiraz, they

DISCOVER THE RHINO POWER.

are committed to representing all Canadian and non-Canadian clients.

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REAL ESTATE What is the best advice you could give to someone buying their first house?

The decision to purchase your very first home is among the most important decisions you make in your lifetime. It is usually the most significant asset a person owns, with financing creating a long-term commitment. I believe one of the most important decisions buyers have to make in this process is who they work with as their agent. It’s essential that you meet with multiple agents until you find one with a strong track record and whose approach you feel comfortable with. Most importantly, it’s crucial not to base your decision solely on what you see on social media. Throughout my experience in this industry, I have seen many that present a phenomenal online image yet when it comes to real life, lack negotiation skills, interpersonal skills and ethical values. Make sure to spend the time and effort to choose an agent you truly resonate with.

Do you have any professional advice or an opinion on the value of full disclosure?

There are many blind spots for clients during the sale or purchase process and nothing makes them more uncomfortable or confused than not fully understanding the steps involved.

The fact that I know it by heart does not mean that a client should too. It is very important that we, as agents, thoroughly explain each step to ensure the buyer is completely comfortable with the hows and whys of each action.

Iman S. Kashkooli (Iman Sami)

The second issue is the need for full disclosure of all information

Owner of Team Rhino

and not what we as agents think is needed. While we do not decide which information is needed, it is the clients’ call and our job to disclose, in an honest manner, all information we discover about the property as soon as we become aware of it.

It is our duty to present the issue realistically and objectively, without under or overestimating the matter at hand.

How do you trust an agent when trust is not given but earned?

“SUCCESS is the MISSION”

During any real estate journey, it’s the agent’s priority to earn the client’s trust by demonstrating a strong work ethic, professionalism, high ethical values and superior negotiation skills. Please note that as real estate agents we are very well paid for our work, which can make it challenging at times to prioritize the clients’ best interest over a juicy commission cheque. At the end of the day, however, we are the professionals being relied upon. Personally, it’s of the utmost importance for me to make sure my clients don’t face any losses due to lack of disclosure, whether now or years down the road.

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MORTGAGE What exactly is a mortgage and what must be considered?

A mortgage application is essentially a business application to private financial institutions that is evaluated through the lenses of risk assessment, as well as a business decision. The bank considers the application and decides whether it’s a good or bad business decision for the bank itself. In order to be approved, the benefits of lending that money to the client must outweigh the risks, for which clients need an expert mortgage specialist. Finding someone who you trust to guide you through Shirin Lak

this process and simplify the complex requirements of these

Mobile Mortgage Manager

financial institutions is key to getting approved.

What makes Team Rhino different?

The differentiation factor I focus on most in my operations is to consider the case of each client as a case for myself, presenting a spotless and accurate image of the case to have it approved at the first shot. My approval rating of over 95% is because before I send out a case, I perform due diligence that is as severe, and perhaps even more severe, than that of an underwriter. Why? Because peoples’ financial situations are as different as their lives, each being unique and requiring special consideration. Our job as mortgage specialists is to present a strong enough reasoning behind each case that supports the idea that it’s the right business decision for the bank and that the benefits are more than the negatives.

Who is eligible for a mortgage?

That’s a good question. Anyone that can prove to a bank by means of adequate financial disclosure that they are capable of performing their obligations under a mortgage contract without putting themselves or the bank at risk of asset liquidations and litigation is eligible. As the mortgage market is becoming more diverse, banks have become quite flexible in considering peoples’ unique financial situations.

604-379-1412 112 828 Harbourside Drive • North Vancouver, BC • V7P 3R9 info@teamrhinorealestate.com teamrhinorealestate.com ALEPH MAGAZINE

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KNOWLEDGE BASED FINANCIAL STRATEGY A financial, business, and tax strategy is a three-pronged road map for success.

This road map should not be based on gut instinct. A proper strategy should be rooted in data-driven financial decisions that get results. The suitable strategy will also depend on your personal goals, and which phase of life or business you are in. Whether you are in the Growth phase, Income phase, or Distribution phase—it is best to have to have a concrete strategy that you can stick to, rather than following perceived market trends.

We all need our businesses and personal investments to grow AND be tax efficient. If an investor is missing their goals or paying tax that could be deferred or sheltered—without realizing it, that person is paying OPPORTUNITY COSTS. These are hidden costs because they do not show up on the ledger. They do, however, lead to slower growth and smaller returns.

Simply put, OPPORTUNITY COST is the growth you have not achieved due to deficiencies in strategy or knowledge. Luckily for the investor or business owner, there are strategies that can be designed for THEIR SPECIFIC financial situation that will optimize their financial growth.

For instance: If a business owner is in the privileged position of having TOO MUCH retained earnings parked in corporate accounts, there are strategies that will allow them to grow their corporate assets tax free, while ALSO giving them access to those funds tax efficient. This strategy allows the business owner to reinvest the extra cash into their portfolio.

On the other hand, if a business is in the early stages, the strategy listed above may negatively impact their ability to grow. A good financial services advisor will take the time to understand your unique situation to ensure they are helping

PEYMAN SALARI FINANCIAL SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE

you implement the right strategies at the right time.

FINANCIAL FREEDOM IS A JOURNEY Maximizing your earnings and reducing your opportunity costs is a marathon, not a sprint. This means as your life or business’ life progresses, your needs change and so do your investment and tax opportunities. Your financial strategy needs to be equally agile and adaptive, ensuring every possible eventuality is prepared for. Your financial services provider should be a trusted advisor that is with you on every step of the journey of life.

MAXIMIZE YOUR FINANCIAL POTENTIAL Mobile: 778-239-8714 Office: 604-363-3644 # 2650 - 1075 West Georgia St. Vancouver, BC, V6E 3C9

With more than 15+ years working with high-end corporate clients and business owners as a business owner, Peyman Salari has developed keen business and tax insights. Peyman believes everybody should take advantage of financial and tax systems, otherwise the system will take advantage of them.

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‫جلوه‌ای از هنر زیبای ایتالیا‬

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Terminal City Club A home away from home.

One of the Vancouver’s oldest private members’ club, the Terminal City Club will be celebrating its 129th birthday this year.

Located in the heart of Vancouver’s financial district, Terminal City Club is a premier business club boasting a wide array of benefits and services. It offers a warm and welcoming ambience that enables its members to expand their business network by meeting local leaders, entrepreneurs and like-minded individuals. Its rich selection of amenities is the perfect way to host clients, entertain friends and establish a healthy and productive routine. Members can take advantage of a fully equipped co-working space, a world-class fitness centre overlooking the North Shore Mountains and versatile dining for virtually every occasion. For those who prefer to keep things casual, a lush rooftop bar and patio are the perfect way to enjoy summer days and nights. Have an event that requires the best of the best? An impressive banquet with in-house catering makes it possible.

604.681.4121 I 837 WEST HASTINGS ST, VANCOUVER WWW.TCCLUB.COM I INFO@TCCLUB.COM

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Peter Jackman General Manager

An Important Piece of Vancouver History Previously known as the Metropolitan Club, Terminal City Club was founded in 1892 by then-mayor Frederick Cope and a few of his business partners. Fast forward to its revival 21 years ago, the Metropolitan Building was a 100-year old building that got torn down and rebuilt into what it is today - a modern, state-of-the-art establishment with a deeply-rooted heritage and important history.

Value-Driven Membership Work, network, socialize and unwind. These are just some of the many possibilities that can be explored at the club. Membership offers endless benefits like concierge services, assistance booking tickets to city-wide events, complimentary parking hours and even car detailing. Choose from four restaurants, complimentary wine tastings and master-classes, live music, and pool and billiards. To relax, the club boasts a hot tub, steam room, sauna, massage and reflexology with access to a wide selection of fitness classes. With a special focus on health and wellness, members can enjoy both healthcare and pharmacy benefits.

Terminal City Club is a whole other world within our beautiful city and membership is highly reflective of Vancouver’s cultural diversity and the community in which it lives.

Home to over 2,100 members and staff, there are more than 25 dialects spoken within the club.

Dedicated to excellence and continually surpassing expectations, it’s is nothing short of an oasis. An attentive team offers the proactive and seamless service that members and businesses require to reach their goals and succeed. Terminal City Club’s staff looks forward to hosting anyone curious about joining and can’t wait to see you on the other side of those doors.

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DEA Canadian College

“Opening Global Career & Life Opportunities.”

Yalda Ahmadvand is the founder and owner of DEA Canadian College. She holds a Master’s degree in Linguistics from the University of Leicester, England. She is also on the board of TESL Canada, Professional Development Director. She established DEA Canadian College in 2015, which is now the only recognized and certified college in the North Shore.

DEA Canadian College is a global vocational training college delivering quality programs to hundreds of students in Vancouver, Canada. In DEA Canadian college, we can help you achieve your education dreams. Through our quality career training programs, you can open doors to the career you have always wanted. Our curriculum has been developed based on input professionals in the areas of business, education, healthcare, hospitality, and childcare.

Their input ensures that our learning outcomes match current industry demands and that our graduates enter the workforce with the required skills to excel in their chosen career fields.

Since we are recognized by the Ministry of Advanced Education, and our name is on the DLI/IRCC list as a Designated Learning Institution, we are able to issue

604-770-4659 info@deacollege.ca deacollege.ca 62

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acceptance letters for your study permit.

Join us today to open the door to a world of opportunity and the career you have always wanted.

Yalda Ahmadvand Founder and owner of DEA Canadian College ALEPH MAGAZINE

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By Ayda Momeni

Sushi

Persian-Style

Ingredients Nori (dried seaweed) Sushi rice Kebab Koobide Bell pepper (julienne: 3mm cut) Cucumber (julienne: 3mm cut) Baby spinach (with stems cut) Cream cheese

Sushi rice ingredients: Sushi rice: 1 cup Water: 220ml Rice vinegar: 40ml

Rice vinegar ingredients: Rice vinegar: 9 tbsp.

Sugar: 6 tbsp.

Salt: 1 tbsp.

Sesame seeds

Saffron caviar ingredients: Water: 100ml

1. Add all the ingredients to a bowl 2. Microwave for 10 seconds 3. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and salt

Agar agar: 1g

How to make sushi rice

Saffron: 1 pinch

1. Wash sushi rice well to remove all the starch until the water is clear.

Cold oil

2. Add washed rice to a small pot and then add 1 cup of cold water to it.

Supplies

3. Put the lid on firmly. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to the

Cutting board

4. Transfer the rice into a large bowl.

A bowl of cold water Makisu (bamboo mat) Sharp knife Small pot 64

How to make sushi vinegar

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lowest setting and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Keep the lid on.

5. Pour 40 ml sushi vinegar over the rice. Mix gently with a spatula while diagonally cutting into the rice to avoid damaging the grains.

6. Let it cool.

How to roll a sushi 1. Put the seaweed on the mat so that the rough side is facing up.

2. Dip your hand into the bowl of cold water and rub your hands together - this prevents the rice from sticking to your hands.

3. Grab a ball of rice about the size of a lemon and spread it onto your seaweed. Try to leave about 1-inch of space at

How to Wrap Using the Makisu (Bamboo mat)

1. Use plastic wrap to wrap the bamboo mat so that the sticks are vertical and perpendicular to the way you are wrapping.

2. Keep wrapping about 3 to 4 times, making sure that it’s tight to the point where the entire mat remains sealed.

3. Cut some slits in the plastic to let some of the air out. This will help prevent air bubbles when we start rolling.

the top and about half an inch towards the bottom. Try not to push down too much on the rice.

4. Place your ingredients on top of the rice. Whatever you want. 2-3 ingredients would be enough (julienne bell peppers, Koobide, julienne cucumber).

5. Bring the bottom of the seaweed up to the top of the rice while using your fingers to hold the ingredients in place and roll. Press evenly and firmly.

6. Cut in 6 pieces and enjoy!

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‫ا گر بدون وصیت نامه فوت کنید‪ ،‬امال ک شما در بریتیش کلمبیا به چه کسی میرسد؟‬

‫نوشــتن وصیــت نامــه میتوانــد بــرای بازمانــدگان شــما آرامــش خیــال و بــه شــما‬ ‫کنتــرل بیشــتری بدهــد‪ .‬امــا ا گــر بــدون وصیــت نامــه فــوت کنیــد‪ ،‬اموالــی کــه‬ ‫تحــت نــام شــما در اســتان بریتیــش کلمبیــا قــرار دارنــد (و مشــمول قواعــد‬ ‫دیگــری نیســتند) بــر اســاس قوانیــن ایــن اســتان توزیــع میشــوند‪.‬‬ ‫تشــریح ایــن قوانیــن پیچیــده اســت‪ ،‬امــا بــه خالصــه میتــوان گفــت کــه ا گــر‬ ‫همســران‪ ،‬فرزنــدان‪ ،‬پــدر‪ ،‬مــادر‪ ،‬پدربــزرگ‪ ،‬مادربــزرگ‪ ،‬خواهــران‪ ،‬یــا برادرانــی‬ ‫بــه جــای بگذاریــد‪ ،‬امــوال شــما بیــن آنهــا یــا فرزنــدان آنهــا براســاس فرمــول‬ ‫بخصوصــی تقســیم خواهنــد شــد‪ .‬فقــط در شــرایطی کــه هیــچ وارثــی از افــراد‬ ‫فــوق بــه جــا نمانــده باشــد‪ ،‬آنــگاه امــوال بــه دولــت میرســد‪ .‬ســوال ایــن اســت‬ ‫کــه پــس داشــتن وصیــت نامــه چــه نفعــی دارد؟‬ ‫بــدون وصیــت نامــه‪ ،‬شــخص وفــات یافتــه کنتــرل تقســیم اموالــش را از دســت‬ ‫ً‬ ‫میدهــد‪ .‬مثــا فرمولهایــی کــه براســاس آن تقســیم امــا ک انجــام مــی شــوند‪،‬‬ ‫ارجحیــت اولیــه محــدودی بــه همســر بازمانــده آن شــخص میدهنــد‪ .‬ا گــر فــرد‬ ‫فــوت شــده بــا همســر بازمانــده اش بچــه ای داشــته باشــد‪ ،‬ایــن ارجحیــت فقــط‬ ‫ســیصد هــزار دالر میباشــد‪ .‬بــدون بچــه‪ ،‬ایــن ارجحیــت فقــط صدوپنجــاه هــزار‬ ‫دالر میباشــد‪ .‬بعــد از اعمــال ایــن ارجحیــت‪ ،‬بقیــه امــوال بیــن همســر و فرزنــدان‬ ‫بطــور مســاوی تقســیم مــی شــوند‪ .‬ایــن نــوع تقســیم میتوانــد بــا نیــاز همســر‬ ‫بازمانــده تناقــض زیــادی داشــته باشــد‪ .‬چــه بســا کــه مالیــات هایــی نیــز کــه بعــد‬ ‫از فــوت بــه امــا ک شــخص فــوت شــده تعلــق میگیرنــد‪ ‌،‬امــوال باقیمانــده را‬ ‫کمتــر هــم کننــد‪ .‬برنامــه ریــزی بــا تدبیــر مالیاتــی مــی توانــد ایــن مالیــات هــا را از‬ ‫بیــن ببــرد‪ ،‬آن هــا را پاییــن بیــاورد ویــا در تاریــخ پرداختــی آنهــا تأخیــر ایجــاد کنــد‪،‬‬ ‫تــا پــول بیشــتری در اختیــار بازمانــدگان شــما باقــی بمانــد‪.‬‬ ‫در کانــادا مالیاتهــای متفاوتــی بعــد از فــوت اعمــال مــی شــوند‪ .‬تشــریح ایــن‬ ‫قوانیــن پیچیــده میباشــد‪ .‬امــا بطــور کلــی مــی تــوان گفــت کــه اداره مالیــات فرض‬ ‫میکنــد کــه فــرد فــوت شــده تمــام اموالــش را در روز فــوت بــه ارزش روز فروختــه‬ ‫و وجــه پرداختــی کامــل را تحویــل گرفتــه اســت‪ .‬ا گــر ایــن فــروش فرضــی ســود‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ده باشــد‪ ،‬اصــوال نصــف آن ســود مشــمول مالیــات میشــود‪ .‬ایــن درحالیســت‬ ‫کــه هیچگونــه خریــد و فروشــی انجــام نشــده و هیــچ پولــی رد و بــدل نشــده‬ ‫اســت‪ .‬مهمتریــن مســتثنی از ایــن قانــون‪ ،‬ملکیســت کــه محــل ســکونت اصلــی‬ ‫شــخص فــوت شــده میباشــد‪ .‬در بدتریــن حالــت بــرای بازمانــدگان‪ ،‬شــخص‬ ‫فــوت شــده دارای ســهام شــرکت خصوصــی میباشــد کــه بــه دلیــل موفقیــت‬ ‫آن شــرکت ارزش افــزوده پیــدا کــرده و مشــمول مالیــات هنگفتــی میشــود‪ .‬ایــن‬ ‫مالیــات مــی توانــد ثــروت باقیمانــده بــرای بازمانــدگان را کمتــر کنــد‪ .‬امــا برنامــه‬ ‫ریــزی مالیاتــی مناســب در طــول حیــات میتوانــد از ایــن نتایــج ناخواســته مالیاتــی‬ ‫تــا حــدی بکاهــد‪.‬‬

‫بــه عــاوه‪ ،‬انتقــال ســند امال کــی ماننــد زمیــن بــه وراث مشــمول پرداخــت‬ ‫عــوارض بخصوصــی بعــد از فــوت میشــود‪ .‬بــا برنامــه ریــزی مناســب در زمــان‬ ‫ً‬ ‫حیــات‪ ،‬ماننــد درج نــام وراث در ســند‪ ،‬ایــن عــوارض را میتوانیــد کامــا از بیــن‬ ‫ببریــد‪ .‬البتــه هــر تغییــری در ســند ممکــن اســت مشــمول مالیــات هــای دیگــری‬ ‫ً‬ ‫شــود و ا گــر قــرض دهنــده ای روی ســند ثبــت شــده باشــد‪ ،‬احتمــاال اجــازه ایــن‬ ‫شــخص بــرای تغییــر در ســند الزم میباشــد‪ .‬بــا وجــودی کــه چنیــن تغییراتــی‬ ‫مــی تواننــد مفیــد باشــند‪ ،‬نتایــج ایــن تغییــرات بایــد از زوایــای مختلــف قانونــی‬ ‫بررســی شــوند‪.‬‬ ‫دلخــراش تریــن حالــت شــاید زمانــی باشــد کــه فــرد فــوت شــده فرزنــدی را‬ ‫بــدون سرپرســت از خــود بــه جــای بگــذارد‪ .‬ایــن مثــال دردنــا ک میتوانــد در‬ ‫صــورت مــرگ پــدر و مــادر در فاصلــه ای کوتــاه اتفــاق بیفتــد‪ .‬در چنیــن شــرایطی‪،‬‬ ‫ا گــر وصیــت نامــه ای وجــود نداشــته باشــد و یــا اینکــه سرپرســت فرزنــد در آن‬ ‫ذ کــر نشــده باشــد‪ ،‬دولــت و دادگاه هــا مســئولیت تعییــن سرپرســت جدیــد را‬ ‫برعهــده خواهنــد داشــت‪ .‬مراتــب ایــن رونــد ممکــن اســت بســیار زمــان بــر و‬ ‫هنگفــت باشــد‪ ،‬بخصــوص ا گــر سرپرســت جدیــد ســا کن کانــادا نباشــد و نامــی‬ ‫از او در وصیــت نامــه ای ذ کــر نشــده باشــد‪ .‬تــا زمانــی کــه سرپرســت جدیــد‬ ‫تعییــن شــود‪ ،‬فرزنــد بایســتی در پرورشــگاه و یــا در کنــار خانــواده ای غریبــه‬ ‫منتظــر بمانــد‪.‬‬ ‫نوشــتن وصیــت نامــه آرامــش خاطــری را بــرای شــما و بازماندگانتــان فراهــم مــی‬ ‫آورد‪ .‬تهیــه یــک وصیــت نامــه جامــع تنهــا بــه معنــی تحریــر متــن آن نیســت‪.‬‬ ‫بلکــه مســتلزم برنامــه ریــزی بــا تدبیــری میباشــد کــه هزینــه هــا و دردســرهای‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ناخواســته را بــرای بازمانــدگان کاهــش دهــد‪ .‬بــرای چنیــن برنامــه ریــزی‪ ،‬حتمــا‬ ‫بــا یــک وکیــل ماهــر و آشــنا بــه قوانیــن محــل ســکونتتان تمــاس بگیریــد‪.‬‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ایــن نوشــتارصرفا بــرای اطــاع رســانی نگاشــته شــده و ممکــن اســت دارای‬ ‫خطاهــای ســهوی باشــد‪ .‬ازایــن مقالــه نبایــد بــه عنــوان منبــع حقوقــی اســتفاده‬ ‫شــود‪ .‬قوانیــن مربــوط بــه امــا ک‪ ،‬مالیــات و ارث و وراثــت پیچیــده هســتند و‬ ‫گاه بــه گاه تغییــر میکننــد‪ .‬بــرای دریافــت اطالعــات دقیــق تــر و جامــع تــر در ایــن‬ ‫زمینــه بــا یــک وکیــل مجــرب مشــورت کنیــد‬

‫بیژن احمدیان‬ ‫وکیل رســمی بریتیــش کلمبیا‬ ‫‪ALEPH MAGAZINE‬‬

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Bijan Law Corporation

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Downtown Vancouver Law Firm www.bijan.law 604.227.6000 ALEPH MAGAZINE

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Hossein Mehrizy BMO Mortgage Specialist When it comes to your mortgage, it is essential to make sure you get the home you want, with flexible financing solutions right for you; here is where I come in. I’m here to help you get the mortgage you need to suit your lifestyle and make your homeownership goals happen.

“I am armed with the considerable resources and expertise of 7+ years of experience.”

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If you are looking to make informed mortgage decisions, contact me TODAY! Reach me @ (604) 719 - 6219 ALEPH MAGAZINE

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They’re super healthy.

Pistachios are nutrient powerhouses, packing protein, fibre, antioxidants, vitamins, and heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids, into each tiny green mouthful. They are also one of the best sources of vitamin B6, which is essential for many bodily functions, including controlling your blood sugar levels and forming hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in your red blood cells.

They’re less calorific than other nuts.

Although they are rammed full of beneficial nutrients, nuts can also be quite calorically dense, and so it’s essential to be mindful of your portion sizes. The excellent news for pistachio lovers is that they are one of the lowest-calorie nuts, which means that you can snack on more of them throughout the day. A one-ounce serving of dryroasted pistachios contains just 162 calories, which is less than the

Five Reasons Why Pistachios are the Ultimate Snack

same serving of pecans, peanuts, walnuts or almonds.

You eat them more slowly.

There’s no doubt about it, nuts are tasty, and so before you know it, you may look down and see that you’ve demolished a whole bag in just a few minutes. If you find yourself racing through your nuts, then pistachios could be the perfect snack for you because they slow down your eating by first making you work through their semisplit shells. Click here for some fun things to do with pistachio shells.

We all know that nuts make great snack foods, providing you with a nutrient-dense energy boost in

They will keep you fuller for longer.

A good snack should provide you with a much-needed energy boost

a conveniently small package. But, not all nuts are

and help to keep you feeling fuller for longer until your next meal.

created equal, and some, such as pistachios, are

Pistachios make the perfect mid-morning and afternoon snack

better to snack on than others. Here are five reasons

because they are rich in fibre and protein, both of which help make

why pistachios just might be the smartest snack food

you feel full and fight off pesky hunger cravings. Because they often

of all time.

come packaged in their semi-split shells, pistachios also help to encourage mindful eating, which triggers receptors in the brain and will tell you when you feel full.

They can help you to lose weight.

Despite being nutrient-dense, pistachios are an excellent weightloss snack because eating just a small portion can help stop you from feeling hungry. In one 12-week study, participants who ate 1.9 ounces of pistachios as their afternoon snack, saw double the weight loss of those who snacked on 2 ounces of pretzels! What’s more, despite their higher fat content, research suggests that not all fat in pistachios is absorbed by the body, meaning that they could be even lower in calories than people think. You can learn more about pistachios and weight loss here.

So the next time you grab a chocolate bar or a bag of crisps to

tide you over until your dinner, you may want to think about picking up a handful of pistachios instead.

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5 Reasons to Invest in Pakistan’s Rapidly Developing Economy Vancouver’s Consulate General of Pakistan formed in September of 2007 as a way to better trade, academic and cultural connections with British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Yukon Territories. Since its establishment, the Pakistani community of the Lower Mainland has not only grown but flourished to thrive.

So, what are the trading opportunities inside this Asia-Pacific region? We spoke to the Embassy’s Consul General Mr. Janbaz Khan about why people should invest in Pakistan.

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A Beneficial, Geo-strategic Location

Adaptable Investment Regulations

Pakistan’s fortunate location makes it an entry point to Asia’s

Pakistan’s current investment policies, laws and regulations are

most central, energy-abundant states, its financially booming

bespoke to suit investor needs, both local and international.

Gulf states and the economically-thriving Far Eastern states.

Trends have presented consistency in liberalization,

This advantageous location makes way for economic

deregulation, privatization and facilitation.

abundance.

A Reformed Financial Sector

A Trained & Qualified Workforce

With the modernization and reform of capital markets, there

A substantial part of Pakistan’s workforce is extensively trained

has been an improvement in the country’s stock exchange

and qualified, with many having had international experience.

infrastructure. The Securities and Exchange Commission of

It has a large pool of professionals proficient in English who

Pakistan has improved stock exchange regulation, the corporate

are committed, hardworking and possess the skills needed to

bond market and the leasing sector. The Federal Board of

further grow Pakistan’s world reach.

Revenue has also made important revisions in tax and tariffs,

An Economy With Perspective

while the State Bank of Pakistan has transformed the banking

Pakistan has an ever-growing middle class with over 174 million consumers. It has abundant land with natural resources for agriculture, crop production, mineral reserves, crude oil, natural gas and so much more. To add, Pakistan’s Foreign Direct investment saw a significant rise from an average of $300 million in the 1990s to over $3.7 billion between 2008 and 2009. The fiscal deficit saw a decline from an average 7% GDP in the 1990s

sector to have substantially high ROI. Pakistan’s underestimated potential combined with an economy teeming with possibilities makes it an ideal investment choice.

With one of South Asia’s top investment regimes, the country’s profitable incentives have attracted countless foreign and local investors. Today, Pakistan invites you to experience the possibilities for yourself.

to an average of 3% in most recent years. FOREX reserves also saw an increase, from $3.22 billion in 2000 to $11.6 billion in 2009.

604 376 2245 ︱ parepvancouver1@mofa.gov.pk

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604 559 4964 78

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|

409 Granville St., #1158, Vancouver, BC, V6C 1T2

|

www.anyvisa.ca

‫!‪Your VIP Immigration to Canada‬‬ ‫اگــر ایــده هــای خالقانــه تجــاری داریــد و آرزوی مهاجــرت بــه کانــادا را در ســر داشــتید و موفــق‬ ‫بــه دریافــت ویــزا از طریــق پروســه کوتــاه مــدت “‪ ”Express Entry‬نشــدید‪ Anyvisa ,‬بــا ســابقه‬

‫طوالنــی در زمینــه ی مهاجــرت میتوانــد بــه شــما کمــک کنــد و بــا پیشــنهادها و راهکارهــای منحصــر‬ ‫بــه فــرد شــما را غافلگیــر کنــد!‬

‫خلق اســتراتژی و روش های خاص هنر ماســت‪.‬‬

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‫‪ALEPH MAGAZINE‬‬

Aleph: If a foreign entrepreneur wants to immigrate to Canada,

Aleph: What makes your approach successful?

where should one begin?

Alex Titov: As exclusive, bespoke-oriented immigration

Alex Titov: First of all, you need to face the truth – do you have

specialists, ANYVISA is accustomed to thoroughly examining a

enough money to invest in such a long-term process as

client’s entire background, including work experience, education,

immigration? Second – reach clarity while comparing different

and business due diligence. This approach ensures that the

options. We work with business files daily and compare and

immigration process will proceed in a way that exceeds the

contrast all the existing Business Immigration programs not only

client’s expectations.

in theory but from our own experience as well. We do it all - PNP

Aleph: What distinguishes ANYVISA from other immigration

Entrepreneur, Business Owner Visa, or Start-Up Visa.

Aleph: Would you highlight your favourite program out of those three?

firms?

Alex Titov: I sincerely believe that our proven track record of providing legal services on-time and on-budget with a high

Alex Titov: By far, the Start-Up Visa is the best option. You must

degree of quality makes us Canada’s premier immigration

have an innovative idea, but no educational or business

consultancy. We can provide this level of consistency because

experience is necessary and requires a very low English language

we have a thorough understanding of the immigration process,

proficiency. The most significant advantage of all is that you

methodologies, and clients’ cultural backgrounds. Secondly, at

don’t need proof of funds. Besides, this is the fastest business

the beginning of a file, we develop a comprehensive budget so

program in terms of getting Canadian PR status!

that applicants understand their real end cost and what they are

Aleph: How do you see your role as a legal advisor?

getting as a result. ANYVISA is certified by the Canadian

Alex Titov: We are educators! Business clients need to be better

consistently achieves success levels that surpass industry norms.

educated and genuinely instructed in Start-Up Visa program

ANYVISA’s clients trust us enough to refer our immigration

requirements. They must understand the business side of

services to those they love, which is distinguished!

Government, vetted and trusted by thousands of clients, and

running a new venture in Canada and be ready to collaborate with all parties involved in the project – partners, investors, legal team, government officials. We cover it all!

Consultation

Start-up Visa

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Dr. Ali R. Akhavan B.Sc. (kin.), D.C.

The

Grande Family Chiropractic

Health and wellbeing have always been at the very heart of Dr. Akhavan’s passions. Having graduated with a Kinesiology degree from Simon Fraser University in 1990, he worked as a personal fitness trainer for three years before continuing his education and receiving a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Western States Chiropractic College, now the University of Western States, in Portland, Oregon. He has been in practice in North Vancouver since 1997.

At his North Vancouver chiropractic clinic, Dr. Akhavan uses his skills to improve the lifestyles of patients young and old, from those who live dayto-day with chronic back issues, migraines and arthritis pain, to those who are suffering from neck pain, low back pain, sciatica, whiplash and lower

604 990 6676 #206 . 168 East 13th Street, North Vancouver, BC, V7L4W8 doctor@grandechiro.com www.grandechiro.com

back disc herniation.

Dr. Akhavan’s North Vancouver chiropractic clinic offers its patients a fully integrated health model that utilizes medical diagnostic technology with various therapies that are safe, non-invasive, and effective.

For more information, please visit our website.

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778 379 5422 | districtwarrior.com 82

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FARINAZ LARI Co-founder & Coach WAKO World Kickboxing Champion National Canadian k-1 Champion

MUAY THAI & PERSONAL TRAINING

ALI KHANJARI Co-founder & Head Coach European Kickboxing Champion MuayThai National Team Member Bachelor of Kinesiology ALEPH MAGAZINE

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| E skandar Y amini | S o c i a l En t re p ren e ur

BIV’s Forty under 40 Winner Eskandar Yamini has established a reputation as a

Yamini continues to be in charge of all facets of

creative social entrepreneur, as well as the President and

Sarmaya’s operation, growth, acquisitions and

CEO of Sarmaya Capital Corp.

fundraising, keeping Sarmaya at the forefront of active

From establishing notoriety for himself as a successful entrepreneur in Vancouver and the United States to

investment while changing the landscape of impact investing.

being president and CEO of Sarmaya Capital Corp.,

“This is a unique business where you can directly change

Eskandar Yamini’s career continues its upward trajectory,

people’s daily lives and make money in the process,” he

attracting the attention of well-established investors with

said.

a strong moral compass.

Far-Reaching Industry Experience

A Hopeful Future

Yamini’s first step in the corporate world was his position

With a vision to revolutionize residential real estate

as an assistant in a law firm. With over 20 years of

investment and tenancy in a responsibly way, Yamini co-

experience in financial operations, the management of

founded Sarmaya in 2018. The company was started with

investment portfolios, new client procurement, public-

the belief that safe and well-managed communities help

private partnerships and capital markets, his vast and

their residents thrive and improve returns. With a focus

diverse experience is what gives him an industry-leading

on multi-family residential assets in the U.S., this

edge. In his start, he held a name as one of the youngest

Vancouver-based investment fund is driven by social

top investment advisers at Berkshire Securities Inc. in

impact and services for residents who live in Sarmaya’s

Montreal and later co-founded an engineering

buildings, further supporting their mission for community

consulting firm in Vancouver by the name of Tala

betterment.

Enterprises where he was director of finance.

The cornerstone of Sarmaya Capital Corp.’s investment

With Sarmaya Capital, Yamini used his comprehensive

strategy is that of Community Betterment. This concept,

industry experience to create waves of change in

of creating additional amenities, structures or services

Vancouver’s investment landscape and bring new

and education centres for the communities of people

meaning to impact investing. In under three years,

living in Sarmaya buildings, is based on the notion of

Sarmaya owns almost 300 apartment units, with a

doing well while doing good. The aim is to better the

portfolio targeting returns of 15-20% annually. This

lives of the communities in which they invest while

portfolio is a direct reflection of the vision and mission

simultaneously differentiating Sarmaya investments

on which Sarmaya was founded, helping change the lives

within the marketplace and providing above average

of hundreds of people in the community and providing

returns for investors.

extraordinary returns for investors.

To read the original article, please visit: https://biv.com/article/2019/12/alex-yamini

855 727 6292 | 2050-1055 W Georgia St., Vancouver, BC, V6E3P3 | info@sarmayacapital.com

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KAMBIZ SHARIF Born in Tabriz in 1978, Kambiz Sharif is an Iranian-Canadian artist who now lives and works in Vancouver, Canada. His extensive art background allows him to use various technical processes and materials throughout his practice including wood, clay, bronze, model making and other forms of casting - all done as a generally self-educated artist.

Sharif employs methods of reduction and notions symbolism in his process as a strategy for expressing personal feelings and confronting the difficulties of life. His recent works are the outcome of his critical approach to various socio-cultural conditions of a world that tries to cast people in predetermined identities and stereotypes.

His most recent sculpture, Need, was installed in downtown, Vancouver during the summer of 2020. Although its form is abstract, the piece holds deep personal meaning for Sharif.

It’s an artistic manifestation of the immigration journey faced by millions not just in Vancouver, but all around the world.

Need can be best understood through the words of Kambiz Sharif, himself.

NEED The immigrant is in search of a place that, in many cases, is tied to his/her dreams. For me, the most important point of immigration is the possibility of movement from an imposed geography to a new land. To establish a life based on re-imagination: security, peace and stability. It is a place where one can combine what one already has with his/her wishes to reach an expected satisfaction. However, separation from one’s motherland to form a new history in unexplored territory is like a simultaneous experience of sweetness and bitterness.

All immigrants have real and imaginary stories about migration and their identity. These stories are sometimes told and other times, like my story, they are concealed to appear in the form of a sculpture. That is, the process of forming a sculpture, from idea to execution, becomes a medium for revealing subjective conceptions (for myself) and others who observe it. It shows how this self-imposed challenge leads to the creation of a new work of art.

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Need

The idea for the first sculpture in Vancouver came to my mind in 2009

Dimensions: 11’-6”x 5’-2” x 17’ ( 3.50 x 1.60 x 5.10 m)

the process of understanding this new culture and becoming more

Medium: Bronze

Location: Intersection of Melville, Pender, and Jervis Streets, Vancouver

while I immigrated to Canada. I was in search of security and shelter, in confident with my communication. With it revealed a bronze sculpture which I called Need. In fact, Need, for me, is the purest interpretation of the moods of that time. Even the passage of time could not have any impact on the quality of our relations. In a concise description: three abstract fingers are represented who demand something from their surrounding environment. They are like seedlings, sprouting out of soil or wood beams of a shelter that are resisting the ups and downs of life, but they still have desires. The palm of the hand, like a world of memories and experiences, locks up traces of the past in its soft body, like a fleshy spherical mirror that reflects what belongs to the present time.

Need - weighing 1200kg and measuring 5m tall, is made of 48 casted pieces, telling the untold and unknown desires of myself and other immigrants. I chose bronze as the material. It is a hard object with a soft, mirror-like appearance that can - for a moment - register and then turn back into its environment, such as what one sees in the juncture of Jervis, Melville and Pender Streets. Exactly like having eye contact between a passerby, anybody - depending on one’s point of view - may experience the reflection of self in their surrounding environment.

In this way, Need was made for people who have experienced different histories, creating a concurrent private and public world in which time and place are not ignored but play a critical role together. In a private space, the sculpture reflects the unrecognisable, unsayable aspects of the observer’s subjectivity. The sculpture, like a homogenous and reflective figure, inspires a behaviour that has a bodily dimension and is correlated to the observer’s experience from this self-reflection.

In this case, the significance of this work is dependent on the interaction between Need and the body of the observer. Its form is redefined with each encounter. But this interaction, through the presence of people, goes beyond the personal; any bodily gesture has the vision of the “other” in itself.

Therefore, the sculpture is always in dialogue with different bodies and simultaneously represents the concept of need, creating a ground in which all intervening, present factors (including the environment and others) interact with each other as a symbiotic body. The work of art would always feel the desire and presence of the “other.”

The Need is purchased in 2015 and housed

as a permanent collection of the Davis Museum

in Boston.

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Ilya Development: The Three Ts The Construction Manager acts as an intersection between the owner, the architect and trades. On that intersection the red light could turn green at the wrong time and create a disaster. As a result, decisions made by the Construction Manager directly affect all related parties. A reliable construction manager does exist; Knowing how to find one, however can be challenging. In addition to the financial aspect, there are a number of other factors to be considered. The keywords to search for the right Project Manager is explained as “The 3 Ts” by Shirzad at Ilya Development.

• Trust Trust is the first and most important ingredient when working with a Construction Manager.

It is extremely important to build a professional connection and a sense of trust, honesty and transparency in your relationship with the client. When choosing a trustworthy professional, research their past experience, review their license and educational background to make a better selection. How one establishes that trust is explained in the next 2 Ts.

• Technique Technique and Tactic come from a strong background and extensive knowledge. Modern Construction trends include a diverse range of advancements in Technology, feasible design and Environmentally Friendly material. In order to build with optimal speed and efficiency, new products and ideas are constantly introduced to the market. A Professional Construction Manager will constantly expand their knowledge to stay up to date. While many material or designs are attractive on paper, not all would be feasible to achieve.

Don’t let Social Media and Advertisements mislead you with the wrong information

• Time The key element in a process that can’t be reversed or brought back, is Time. Time has a direct effect on cost and quality. Building a desirable and cost-effective property needs to be precisely planned. A dedicated timetable ensures that projects are on the schedule from start to finish and provides a clear vision of the whole building process.

A skilled Construction Manager is the one who brings all three factors into balance. A balanced project is constructed on time, on budget and with high quality.

At Ilya Development “The 3 Ts” are the pillars of business to ensure that the highest level of quality and efficiency is delivered.

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778-288-5599

#1105, 188E Esplanade, North Vancouver, BC V7L 4Y1

shirzad@ilyadevelopment.com ilyadevelopment.com

Forex & Stock Market Learning Center

‫ بازار فارکس‬،‫آمــوزش بازار بــورس‬ ‫و خریــد و فــروش ارزهــای دیجیتال‬

“Master the Stock & Forex Market With Our Expert Guidance.”

604 679 8791 123 15th St E ︱ North Vancouver, BC, V7L 2P7 ︱ a1college.ca

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How to Plan during a Pandemic

Hasti Maloufi Owner + Lead Planner of La Vista Events @lavistaevents | www.lavistaevents.com 90

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Belluxe Photography

It’s hard enough planning a wedding as is...and it’s certainly not any easier during a pandemic..

energies at these celebrations become more emotional.

You will finally be able to enjoy speeches. With less distractions

Event planning professionals have the responsibility of hosting

and less guests in the crowd, those giving speeches receive the

celebrations that are not only thoughtfully planned and

attention they deserve and can deliver more heartfelt and

beautifully designed, but also safe for the special guests that

impactful messages as a result.

are attending with much anticipation and joy. The events being hosted now look a lot different from previous years.

The other advantage is the opportunity to splurge on more beautiful and detailed touches with enhanced design plans,

Beyond the smaller guest counts (typically 50 or less attendees),

decor and flowers. These personalized touches allow the

celebrations are being modified further with more spacious floor

couples’ true style to be better reflected in a more intimate

plans that allow for physical distancing.

setting.

Here are some ways that weddings now look and feel different:

If you are planning a wedding in the near future, consider this

–

Instead of full tables of guests, each table should only seat at maximum six guests and all seating (at ceremony, cocktail hour and dinner) should be contained, as best as possible, to the household social bubbles.

–

Plated dinner service is the preferred and safest choice compared to traditional buffets.

–

advice: –

If you’re not in a rush to host a large celebration, then wait!

–

You can still get legally married with a smaller group of loved ones and plan to party when there are less restrictions.

–

When determining when to invite guests, you need to decide what makes more sense to you and your families.

The most challenging part, especially for Iranian weddings

Would you rather notify and invite all the guests, knowing

where guests love to dance from start to finish, is the

there is a chance you will need to postpone or wait until

restriction on dancing. This is a primary reason why most

closer to the wedding, or only invite the guests based on

couples are waiting to celebrate at a later time.

the capacity of what is realistic?

While compromises have to be made, there is something special

More than anything, be patient, flexible and realistic when

about these intimate celebrations.

making wedding plans in 2021. Be patient with your guests as

For couples that do not enjoy having too much attention from too many people, they are able to feel more relaxed knowing the guest count must remain intimate. Now, the guests that are invited are the immediate families or the closest of friends.

Guests are becoming more punctual than ever and genuinely

they may take longer to confirm their attendance. Be flexible if your plans have to shift at the last minute. Be realistic about the plans you make.

Remain cautiously optimistic and hopeful, but don’t forget why you’re getting married in the first place.

grateful to be there. The genuineness can be contagious as the ALEPH MAGAZINE

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@mahsa.zargar.gallery . www.mahsazargar.com 92

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AN INTERVIEW WITH MATT GUL PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

Matt, can you tell us about your background?

Waterfront Living firsthand, which has allowed me to specialize in Waterfront Properties with a vast amount of

I hold a degree in Political Science and have over 30 years of

experience and knowledge.

experience as a Marketing Consultant in various European companies in various fields.

•

I own a successful Rental Company, RentYVR, that has

How did you get started in your Real Estate career?

managed a portfolio of hundreds of Rental Properties. This

Real Estate has always been my passion. My first step was

resources and trades in Vancouver.

becoming an Investor, which has given me a significant advantage in Real Estate. As an Investor, I purchased and sold my own properties, or my Investor Group properties - completing nearly 50 transactions in Vancouver. Most Realtors buy and sell for their clients, but with my experience as an Investor, I can understand the emotions and feelings of buyers and sellers.

Following my Investor experience, I opened a Real Estate Brokerage in Coal Harbour, Alliance First Realty.

There are many Real Estate Agents; what sets you apart from them?

•

As an Investor, I’ve completed many transactions with my own properties.

•

I used to own a successful brokerage firm, Alliance First Realty, managing nearly 100 realtors. Therefore, I have a stronger and better understanding of the rules and regulations than most Real Estate Agents.

•

I sponsored the Immigration Association, IMEDA (Immigration Education Alliance) for several years, and

•

Overall, these experiences, connections, and knowledge has allowed me to work side-by-side with sophisticated buyers and sellers that enjoy working with me.

Matt, you are very involved in the community. Please tell us about this.

I’ve always supported the community in various social activities and fundraising events. Currently, I am an Executive Member of the Vancouver Artillery Association and an Associate Member of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment Officers’ Mess, and a member of the Royal United Services Institute - Vancouver Society.

I am also the Former Staff Captain of Eagle Harbour Yacht Club in West Vancouver and the Former President of the Rotary Club of West Vancouver Sunrise, which has allowed me to work closely with the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue.

Who is behind your amazing marketing? We see extraordinary

campaigns with James Bond 007 equipment, yachts, and

IMEDA used Alliance First Realty’s offices as their Education

seaplanes.

Centre for seminars and webinars for all Immigration

I have a great team behind me, my family members - my

Consultants nationwide. This has resulted in a strong

daughter, Selin Gul, who’s currently studying Business at

connection with the Immigration world.

University is the mastermind behind my creative planning. My

I have over 30 years of experience in International Trade and Marketing.

•

has given me non-stop training and access to the best

As I live on the Waterfront myself, I can experience

Son, Onur Gul, helps me with Drone Footage, and of course, my wife, Alev Gul, who does everything behind the scenes. I’m surrounded by a young and dynamic international sales and marketing team that utilizes all the latest marketing tools, ALEPH MAGAZINE

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combining print media with online and social media, to maximize my clients’ properties in Vancouver and beyond. I have an assistant buyer’s agent from HK, Gabriel Lui, my Administrative Assistant, Kelly Raynsford and my Overseas Account Assistant, Elena De Candia – they are all the best in their field.

Tell us, Matt, you specialize in Waterfront Properties. What is going on in our Waterfront?

waterfront home compared to other international cities.

In Laguna Beach and Malibu, the average Waterfront Property price range is $18,800,000 to $25,000,000 CAD. In Hong Kong, Waterfront Property prices ranged from $8,100,000 CAD for a Condo to $154,000,000 for a Hong Kong house. In Hong Kong, there is currently one listing that fits the definition of a house in Canada, and it is listed at $324,000,000

Did you know that West Vancouver is still one of the least

CAD. The Hong Kong Waterfront Property AVG would be

expensive locations to buy a single-family Waterfront home?

$45,000,000 CAD, but these are not your standard homes. They

I specialize in Waterfront Properties because I love the ocean and water sports. Waterfront Living, or even living close to the

are more like townhouses, townhomes or houses with very little yards and room in between houses.

water, is an exclusive and enjoyable experience. It’s like

In Sydney, a Waterfront Property was sold for $30,982,880 CAD

experiencing the beauty of the sea and sky from the front row.

only a few days ago, and in September 2020, another Waterfront

Waterfront living is popular across the globe, and West Vancouver has the best of the best. Just over 25 years ago, Waterfront Properties were roughly 60% higher than the average

Property sold for $91,980,425 CAD. These homes are located in Point Piper and Potts Point, two of the most expensive areas (right next to each other), with Waterfronts Homes.

price of non-waterfront properties. However, the difference is

Those who purchase Waterfront in Vancouver are due to make

now a staggering 110%. Although Vancouver is now one of the

a lot of profit in the upcoming years.

most expensive cities in North America, West Vancouver is still one of the least expensive locations to buy a single-family

778 888 8888 96

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matt@mattgul.com

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“Fazioli lets my imagination soar.”

– Sanaz Sotoudeh

S H O W C A S E P I A N O S . C O M

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